Introduction

In exploring the interplay between literature and digital technology, Dennis Tenen’s “Plain Text: The Poetics of Computation”1 offers profound insights into how computation shapes our understanding and interaction with text. This essay aims to dissect key arguments from Tenen’s work, employing a structure akin to Jeremy Till’s “Coping with Contingency.”

Digital Textuality and Its Implications

The core of Tenen’s argument revolves around the idea that computation is not merely a tool but an integral part of modern textuality2. He posits that digital text is a complex amalgamation of code, interface, and narrative, each aspect influencing the reader’s perception. The digital format transforms the very essence of text, moving beyond the static nature of printed words to a dynamic, interactive experience.

Computational Poetics: A New Literary Realm

Tenen delves into the notion of “computational poetics,” suggesting that algorithmic processes create a new realm of literary aesthetics3. This perspective is not just about the digital representation of traditional texts but about how algorithmic logics open up novel ways of storytelling and interpretation. It challenges the conventional boundaries of authorship and readership, as seen in interactive novels and generative poetry.

The Cultural Implications of Code

A critical aspect of Tenen’s thesis is the cultural and political dimension of code4. He argues that understanding code is akin to literacy in the digital age. The transparency or opacity of code in digital texts can influence societal power dynamics, determining who has access to, and control over, information and knowledge.

Conclusion: Towards a Computational Literacy

In conclusion, “Plain Text” pushes us to reconceptualize our approach to text in the digital era. It calls for a form of “computational literacy”5 where understanding code becomes as crucial as understanding language. Tenen’s work is a compelling call to explore the depths of digital textuality, encouraging a nuanced appreciation of how computation is intricately woven into the fabric of modern literature.